Empowering Your Career: An Interview with Louise Janning Petersen
For this month’s Career Club DK newsletter, we had the pleasure of interviewing Louise Janning Petersen, a seasoned recruiter, founder of Janning & Partners, and an advisory board member of Career Club DK.
Louise shared valuable insights on optimizing LinkedIn profiles, job searching in Denmark, and her inspiring journey into recruitment.
A Diverse Career Path
Louise’s path to becoming a top recruiter and a career advisor is both inspiring and multifaceted.
With a background that includes finance, customer service, and marketing, Louise discovered her passion for recruitment. “I have had the most fantastic journey within recruitment, networking, and talent attraction. Creating authentic connections has always been my driving force and the reason behind my success and joy at work,” she reflects.
Tips for a Standout LinkedIn Profile
During our conversation, Louise provided practical advice for enhancing LinkedIn profiles—a crucial tool for job seekers, especially in the Danish market.
“First of all, have a nice, professional picture—not with your dog or children. This is not Facebook, it’s a professional platform. Make sure to look sharp and nice. Some colors would also be good,” Louise advised.
She emphasized the importance of a friendly yet professional demeanor in profile pictures.
“You can definitely smile. You can see that I'm a person who often smiles,” she noted.
Louise also recommended using the LinkedIn banner space effectively.
“If you’re looking for a job, you could put your name, email address, and phone number on the banner so people can contact you easily.”
Louise also stressed the significance of a compelling headline and summary.
Your headline should quickly convey who you are and what you do. Your summary is your chance to tell your story—what drives you, what your strengths are, and what you’re looking for.
When it comes to your LinkedIn 'About' section, Louise advises clarity and conciseness. Use bullet points to quickly convey who you are, your professional journey, and your aspirations.
Tell recruiters what you've accomplished, what you're aiming for, and what is your dream job. Don't be afraid to use emojis strategically to capture attention and inject personality into your profile.
Louise highlighted a less utilized but crucial aspect of LinkedIn profiles—the "Featured" section.
“It’s often overlooked, but it’s valuable real estate,” she emphasized. “Use this section to showcase your best work, articles you’ve written, or projects you’ve completed. It’s a great way to make a strong impression and stand out.”
Louise advised on the importance of filling out all sections of the LinkedIn profile thoroughly. “Detail your experience, education, and skills comprehensively. Use bullet points to make your experience easy to read. Don’t just list duties—focus on achievements and how you added value in each role.”
She also highlighted the importance of recommendations and endorsements. “Reach out to colleagues, clients, and supervisors for recommendations. These add credibility and showcase your professional relationships.”
Personal Journey and Motivation
As our conversation progressed, Louise shared more about her personal journey, which has significantly shaped her career. Growing up as a foster child, Louise faced numerous challenges that instilled in her a profound resilience and a desire to help others.
“My childhood was not easy, but it taught me the importance of support and guidance,” Louise recalls. “I learned early on that having someone believe in you can make all the difference. This is why I am so passionate about my work—because I want to be that person for others.”
Her experiences as a foster child instilled a strong sense of empathy and a drive to create opportunities for others, particularly those who might feel marginalized or overlooked. “I know what it’s like to feel like an outsider, to feel like you have to work twice as hard to be seen. This is why I am so committed to helping others find their paths and succeed.”
Louise’s journey is not just about overcoming obstacles but about transforming them into stepping stones for success. “Every challenge I faced made me stronger and more determined to make a difference. I want to help people see their own potential and guide them to opportunities where they can thrive.”
Mentorship and Career Insights
Louise highlighted the profound impact of mentorship on her career. “Mentors have played a crucial role in guiding me throughout my journey. Their belief in my abilities and their advice have been invaluable,” she shared. “I believe in paying it forward by mentoring others, helping them navigate their career paths with confidence and clarity.”
Cultural Awareness and Career Development
Louise expressed gratitude for her upbringing in Denmark and her awareness of cultural differences gained from her travels in South America. “I’m grateful to have been born in Denmark, where opportunities for growth and education are abundant,” she acknowledged. “My travels in South America and volunteering experiences there have broadened my perspective on cultural diversity, which is crucial in my role as a recruiter and career advisor.”
Overcoming Career Setbacks
Throughout her career, Louise has faced setbacks that have ultimately propelled her forward. “There were times when I didn’t get the job I wanted or encountered unexpected challenges,” she revealed. “Each setback taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. I learned to view setbacks as opportunities for growth and redirection.”
Passion for Empowering Others & Job search Tips in Denmark
Louise’s passion for empowering individuals through their career journeys shines through in her work and advice. “Seeing others succeed and knowing that I played a part in their journey is incredibly rewarding,” she shared. “I’m committed to creating pathways for success and fostering a supportive community where everyone can thrive.”
Louise’s expertise extends beyond LinkedIn. She offered comprehensive tips for job searching in Denmark. “Networking is key,” she stressed. “Connect with people, join professional networks, and attend events. The Danish job market values connections and recommendations highly.”
She also highlighted the importance of tailoring applications. “Customize your CV and cover letter for each job. Show the employer that you’ve done your research and explain why you’re the perfect fit for their team.”
She also highlighted the importance of tailoring applications. “Customize your CV and cover letter for each job. Show the employer that you’ve done your research and explain why you’re the perfect fit for their team.”
Louise provided specific advice on where to network in Denmark. “Look for local industry events, join professional associations, and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your field. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for informational interviews—they can be incredibly valuable.”
Networking Tips
Louise emphasized the importance of building genuine relationships. “Networking isn’t just about what others can do for you; it’s about building mutually beneficial relationships. Be authentic, offer help, and stay in touch.”
She also recommends being proactive. “Attend events, join groups, and participate in discussions. The more active you are, the more visible you become.”
Aligning with Career Club DK’s Mission
Louise’s insights are particularly relevant to the mission of Career Club DK. As an advisory board member, she plays a pivotal role in shaping the club’s strategies and supporting its diverse community of international women in Denmark. “I’m passionate about helping people and companies in their development. If you share this passion or have questions, I’m always open for a good conversation and new connections,” she said.
Career Club DK aims to empower women through professional development, and Louise’s journey and advice embody this mission. Her dedication to fostering authentic connections and her practical tips provide invaluable guidance for our members.
Conclusion
Louise’s journey and expertise offer a wealth of knowledge to anyone looking to advance their career in Denmark. We hope her insights inspire you to enhance your LinkedIn profile and approach your job search with renewed confidence.
Since joining the board of Career Club DK Louise has been an invaluable member of it and has contributed her time and efforts towards promoting professional women in Denmark.
It was a joy to get to know her better.
For more tips and to connect with like-minded professionals, join Career Club DK and be part of a community that supports your career growth and success.
You are welcome to reach out to Louise at:
Article By
Judy Cohen
